Rosy Heath Moth
Common NameRosy Heath Moth
Scientific NameIsturgia miniosaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)27.5
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, black, white, grey
HabitatDry heaths, grasslands, open woodlands, sandy areas
Geographic RangeSouthern and Central Europe, extending eastwards into parts of Asia
Host PlantsErica, Calluna, Genista, Cytisus
Flight PeriodApril to June, July to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' (inchworms) that feed on heath plants, camouflaged to blend with twigs. Pupation occurs in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled reddish-brown, black, and whitish-grey forewing pattern with irregular bands, especially a prominent dark central band. Males have noticeably bipectinate (feathery) antennae.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, triangular forewings displaying a complex, mottled pattern of reddish-brown, black, and whitish-grey bands and speckles. The hindwings are paler, often whitish-grey with fainter markings.
